ICC Hall of Fame 2025: Celebrating Seven Cricket Legends
Welcome to a momentous occasion in cricket history as the International Cricket Council (ICC) unveils seven new inductees into the prestigious ICC Hall of Fame for 2025. The star-studded ceremony, held at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in London, was a fitting tribute to these extraordinary talents whose brilliance has shaped the sport across formats and generations.
ICC Chair Jay Shah set the tone for the evening with a heartfelt address: “Through the ICC Hall of Fame, we honor the finest players the game has ever seen—individuals whose remarkable careers have carved an eternal legacy in cricket and inspired millions. This year, we are thrilled to welcome seven truly exceptional personalities into this elite circle. On behalf of the ICC, I congratulate each of them and hope they treasure this well-deserved recognition as a pinnacle in their illustrious journeys.”
The Magnificent Seven: Icons of Cricket
Matthew Hayden (Australia)
A towering figure at the crease, Matthew Hayden redefined opening batting with his sheer dominance. Amassing 8,625 runs in 103 Tests at an average of 50.73, including 30 centuries, Hayden was a nightmare for bowlers. His ODI exploits, with 6,133 runs and a standout performance as the leading run-scorer in the 2007 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, cemented his legacy. A two-time World Cup winner, Hayden now captivates audiences as a commentator. “Joining a list with my childhood heroes and fierce rivals is surreal,” Hayden reflected.
Hashim Amla (South Africa)
Hashim Amla, South Africa’s elegant run-machine, joins the Hall with 9,282 Test runs at 46.64 and an astonishing 8,113 ODI runs at 49.46. Known for his serene stroke play, Amla became the first South African to score a Test triple century—311* against England in 2012. With 55 international tons, his consistency was unmatched. “To be inducted alongside legends feels surreal,” Amla shared humbly.
MS Dhoni (India)
A name synonymous with clutch performances, MS Dhoni enters as one of India’s greatest-ever captains. His iconic six to win the 2011 ODI World Cup remains etched in history. With 10,773 ODI runs at 50.57 and the unique feat of winning all three major ICC white-ball titles (2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup, 2013 Champions Trophy), ‘Captain Cool’ redefined leadership and finishing. “This honor alongside all-time greats is something I’ll cherish forever,” Dhoni said.
Graeme Smith (South Africa)
Graeme Smith, a born leader, captained South Africa to the No. 1 Test ranking with a gritty batting style that yielded 9,265 Test runs at 48.25. Appointed captain at just 22, Smith’s tenacity shone through in every innings. “This is a proud moment for South Africa and me personally,” he stated, celebrating the dual recognition with Amla.
Daniel Vettori (New Zealand)
A wizard with the ball, Daniel Vettori claimed 362 Test wickets and scored over 4,000 runs, joining an elite club of all-rounders. His 305 ODI scalps further highlight his impact. Now guiding Australia as an assistant coach, Vettori remarked, “To be recognized among such outstanding talent is overwhelming.”
Sana Mir (Pakistan)
A pioneer for women’s cricket in Pakistan, Sana Mir becomes the first from her nation to enter the Hall. With 151 ODI wickets and tireless off-field advocacy for body positivity and mental health, Mir’s legacy transcends statistics. “From dreaming of a women’s team to this moment—it’s unimaginable,” she expressed with gratitude.
Sarah Taylor (England)
Hailed as one of the finest wicketkeepers in women’s cricket, Sarah Taylor dazzled with her glove work and contributed 4,056 ODI runs. Instrumental in England’s 2009 and 2017 World Cup triumphs, Taylor said, “This feels like a dream, especially during such an exciting era for women’s cricket.”
As we wrap up this celebration of cricketing excellence, these seven inductees remind us why cricket is more than just a game—it’s a legacy of passion, perseverance, and unparalleled skill. From Hayden’s brute force to Mir’s trailblazing spirit, the ICC Hall of Fame 2025 class is a testament to the sport’s global heartbeat. Who’s your favorite among these legends? Let us know in the comments!